Imagine your team’s star quarterback going down in a game already slipping away—a gut-wrenching moment that could define their season. That’s exactly what happened to Jayden Daniels last night, leaving Washington Commanders fans holding their breath. But here’s where it gets controversial: while some sources, like Adam Schefter, fear this injury could end Daniels’ season, a medical expert is calling it a ‘very common elbow dislocation’ that might not be as devastating as it seems. So, what’s the truth? Let’s break it down.
In the fourth quarter, with the Commanders trailing by 31 points, Daniels was sacked by Seattle Seahawks linebacker Drake Thomas. The play looked brutal—Daniels was thrown to the ground at an awkward angle, forcing him to brace his fall with his arm. This caused his shoulder and elbow to lock in place, and as his body continued moving forward, his arm didn’t, resulting in what’s now confirmed as an elbow dislocation. It was a painful, cringe-worthy moment that left everyone wondering: How bad is it really?
And this is the part most people miss: Elbow dislocations, particularly the posterolateral type Daniels likely suffered, account for about 80% of all elbow dislocation cases. A medical expert from MEDspiration’s YouTube channel explained that while important ligaments like the UCL (or Tommy John ligament) may be affected—and could even tear in severe cases—this injury isn’t necessarily a season-ender. In fact, the expert pointed out that since this is Daniels’ non-throwing arm, he wouldn’t require Tommy John surgery, a procedure more common in MLB pitchers than quarterbacks. Instead, a simple dislocation without a fracture typically heals in 4-6 weeks, similar to what we saw with Khalil Mack earlier this year.
But here’s the catch: If the dislocation is complex and involves a fracture, surgery might be needed, extending recovery to 6-8 weeks or longer. Even then, it’s not technically season-ending—Daniels could theoretically return as early as Week 15 or as late as Week 17. However, with the Commanders already struggling at 3-6, the team might decide to bench him for the rest of the year if playoff hopes fade. Is that the right call? Or should they push for his return? Let us know in the comments.
This injury is a harsh blow for a team that entered the season with sky-high expectations. After a magical run to the NFC Championship game last year and Daniels winning Rookie of the Year, many believed the Commanders would dominate the NFC East. But injuries have derailed their momentum, leaving them far from their full potential. Now, Marcus Mariota steps in as quarterback, having led the team to a 1-2 record earlier this season. While it’s not a death sentence for their season, it’s undoubtedly a setback. Can they still make a playoff push? Many doubt it, but stranger things have happened in the NFL.
Here’s a thought-provoking question for you: With the Commanders’ season hanging in the balance, should they prioritize Daniels’ long-term health or push for a late-season comeback? Share your take below—this is one debate that’s sure to spark differing opinions.
